A Systematic Approach to Interpreting the Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test in Pediatrics

Marco Van Brussel*, Bart C. Bongers, Erik H. J. Hulzebos, Marcella Burghard, Tim Takken

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

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Abstract

The use of cardiopulmonary exercise testing in pediatrics provides critical insights into potential physiological causes of unexplained exercise-related complaints or symptoms, as well as specific pathophysiological patterns based on physiological responses or abnormalities. Clinical interpretation of the results of a cardiopulmonary exercise test in pediatrics requires specific knowledge with regard to pathophysiological responses and interpretative strategies that can be adapted to address concerns specific to the child's medical condition or disability. In this review, the authors outline the 7-step interpretative approach that they apply in their outpatient clinic for diagnostic, prognostic, and evaluative purposes. This approach allows the pediatric clinician to interpret cardiopulmonary exercise testing results in a systematic order to support their physiological reasoning and clinical decision making.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)194-203
Number of pages10
JournalPediatric Exercise Science
Volume31
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2019

Keywords

  • child
  • exercise physiology
  • interpretation
  • normal responses
  • differential diagnosis
  • MAXIMAL HEART-RATE
  • CYSTIC-FIBROSIS
  • OXYGEN-UPTAKE
  • CHILDREN
  • HEALTHY
  • ASSOCIATION
  • GUIDELINES
  • CARDIOLOGY
  • EFFICIENCY
  • VALUES

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